Nicsa Recognizes Eight Committees for Outstanding Industry Contributions in 2026 Chairman's Challenge
Annual initiative celebrates volunteer-led thought leadership, innovation, and collaboration advancing the asset and wealth management industry
Boston, MA – October 15, 2026 – Nicsa, a leading association connecting all facets of the asset and wealth management industry, today announced the eight committees selected for recognition in its 2026 Chairman's Challenge: Awards for Committee Excellence. Building on the success of the inaugural program in 2025, the initiative celebrates the exceptional contributions of Nicsa and Inclusion in Finance volunteers whose collaborative efforts deliver actionable insights, educational resources, and practical solutions to some of the industry's most pressing challenges.
The Chairman's Challenge recognizes committee achievements that demonstrate innovation, relevance, and meaningful industry impact. This year's honorees reflect the breadth of Nicsa's volunteer community, with contributions spanning artificial intelligence, digital assets, regulatory compliance, investment products, talent development, and operational best practices.
"Our committees are at the heart of Nicsa's mission, bringing together industry professionals who generously share their expertise to address common challenges and advance our industry. The Chairman's Challenge recognizes not only the quality of their work, but also the collaborative spirit that makes these accomplishments possible. The resources developed by these volunteers deliver tangible value to member firms and help shape the future of asset and wealth management," said Clint Harris, Chairman of the Board at Nicsa.
2026 Chairman's Challenge Honorees
The following eight committees are being recognized for their outstanding contributions:
Recognizing the Power of Industry Collaboration
The Chairman's Challenge underscores the important role Nicsa's volunteer committees play in connecting industry expertise with real-world business needs. Through cross-functional collaboration and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, committee members develop resources that help firms navigate change, strengthen operations, and identify opportunities for innovation.
"What distinguishes Nicsa is the willingness of our members to work across firms, functions, and disciplines to move the industry forward. This year's Chairman's Challenge honorees demonstrate the power of that collaboration, transforming shared expertise into practical tools and thought leadership that benefit the broader industry. We are grateful for the time, energy, and commitment of every volunteer who contributes to this work," said Jim Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Nicsa
The eight recognized committees will be celebrated on the main stage at Nicsa's 2026 Asset & Wealth Management Summit, taking place November 10–11 at the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston. Their contributions will also be featured in a special edition of the Nicsa Connect newsletter, highlighting the resources and insights available to the Nicsa membership community.
To learn more about Nicsa's committees, volunteer opportunities, and industry resources, visit www.nicsa.org.
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Through education, collaboration, and networking, Nicsa brings together industry leaders to share knowledge, address emerging challenges, and advance innovation and excellence across the industry.
Explore the 2026 Asset & Wealth Management Summit agenda and register:
https://nicsa.org/summit-2026/
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | [email protected] | Vice President, Content & Communications
Annual recognition celebrates leadership and innovation across the asset and wealth management industry.
Boston, MA | October 15, 2026 | Nicsa, a leading not-for-profit association supporting the asset and wealth management industry, announced the recipients of its 2026 Nicsa NOVA Awards. These awards celebrate excellence in leadership and innovation across the industry, recognizing individuals and organizations whose achievements help advance best practices and foster collaboration.
“Nicsa’s NOVA awards recognize the individuals and organizations whose leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence are helping move our industry forward,” said Jim Fitzpatrick, President & CEO of Nicsa. “This year’s honorees reflect the breadth of talent and ingenuity across the asset and wealth management community, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions.”
The 2026 NOVA Awardees are as follows:
Nicsa Awards
The Nicsa Awards (Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Service, and Strategic Leadership) reflect the Association’s deep-rooted history of convening the industry’s most influential minds and have long stood as a respected platform for recognizing exceptional leadership, innovation, and service. The Nicsa awards honor not only icons who have shaped the industry but those defining its future—individuals whose influence, vision, and stewardship will place them among the next generation of visionaries in the asset and wealth management industry. The 2026 honorees are:
Lifetime Achievement Award
John Stadtler, Retired Partner, PwC
Outstanding Service Award (Robert L. Gould Award)
Larry Fahey, Retired Executive, Morgan Stanley
Strategic Leadership Award (William T. Blackwell Award)
Baroness Helena Morrissey, Chair of Inclusion in Finance UK
Emerging Leader Awards
Nicsa’s Emerging Leaders program recognizes rising professionals who demonstrate exceptional potential and dedication to advancing the industry. The 2026 honorees, alphabetized by firm, are:
Industry Innovation Awards
The Innovation Awards recognize organizations that are transforming the asset and wealth management industry through innovative strategies, operating models, and technologies. The 2026 honorees are:
Asset Management Innovator of the Year: Dimensional Fund Advisors
Wealth Management Innovator of the Year: LPL Financial
Alternative Investments Innovator of the Year: CAIS
Digital Assets Innovator of the Year: Envision Financial Systems
Industry Innovation in Distribution: SS&C Technologies
Industry Innovation in Operations: Abandoned Property Advisors; Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; SS&C Technologies
Industry Innovation in Product Development: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Industry Innovation in Technology: EY
About the Awards
The 2026 NOVA Award winners will be honored at Nicsa’s Asset & Wealth Management Summit, taking place November 10-11, 2026, at the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston, MA. For more information about the NOVA Awards and this year’s honorees, visit www.nicsa.org/nova-awards.
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a not-for-profit trade association striving to connect all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | [email protected] | Vice President, Content & Communications
Boston, MA – October 2026 – Nicsa will bring together a dynamic lineup of senior executives and industry innovators at its 2026 Asset & Wealth Management Summit, taking place November 10–11, 2026, at the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston. This year’s program, “Alts & AI: Transforming the Front, Middle, and Back Offices,” will convene leaders from across the asset and wealth management industry to examine how artificial intelligence, alternative investments, changing distribution models, and evolving investor needs are reshaping firms across the enterprise.
C-Suite Perspectives on Leading Through Transformation
A featured session, “Leading Through Transformation: C-Suite Perspectives,” will bring senior industry leaders to the main stage for a candid discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing firms today.
Moderated by John Stadtler, Retired Partner at PwC, the panel will feature:
The conversation will explore the issues commanding executive attention and offer perspectives on how organizations can position themselves for long-term success.
Industry Leaders Across AI, Alternatives and Distribution
The Summit’s speaker roster reflects the breadth of transformation taking place across the asset and wealth management industry, bringing together executives responsible for technology, product innovation, private markets, wealth management, distribution, regulation, and business strategy.
The full speaker lineup includes:
Together, these leaders will bring real-world perspectives to some of the industry's most consequential questions — including how firms are putting AI into action, expanding access to private markets, rethinking product and distribution strategies, and adapting operating models for a rapidly evolving marketplace.
From AI Adoption to the Evolution of Alternatives
The 2026 agenda is designed to move beyond broad discussions of disruption and into the strategic and operational decisions firms are making today. Sessions will examine AI implementation within wealth management and the advisor experience; the convergence of public and private markets; alternatives in retirement; evolving product structures and liquidity; and the next generation of alternatives distribution.
Featured conversations include Microsoft on the future of asset and wealth management, an inside look at the Morgan Stanley and OpenAI partnership, a discussion with LPL Financial on reimagining the advisor experience, and an executive conversation with Capital Group and KKR on bringing public-private investment solutions to market.
Attendees will also hear from leaders across the alternatives ecosystem on the changing role of private markets in wealth management, retirement, product development, and distribution.
The Summit will provide two days of executive-level insights, peer-to-peer discussion, and networking for professionals across investment management, wealth management, operations, technology, product strategy, distribution, and the broader asset and wealth management ecosystem.
Explore the agenda and register:
https://nicsa.org/summit-2026/
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | [email protected] | Vice President, Content & Communications
Boston, MA | August 31, 2026 | Nicsa, a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry, announced the appointment of Mike Parrinello, Managing Director, Asset Management & Insurance at Clarendon Partners, LLC, as Co-Chair of its Membership Committee.
The Nicsa Membership Committee plays an important role in strengthening engagement across the association’s member community, bringing together professionals from across the asset and wealth management industry to foster connections, exchange ideas, and support the continued growth and value of Nicsa membership.
“As the investment landscape continues to evolve, there is a growing need to bring together leaders from across traditional asset and wealth management, alternative investments, private markets, digital assets, and the broader ecosystem of technology innovators and service providers,” said Parrinello.
“I’m honored to take on a leadership role in helping Nicsa foster these connections, encourage the exchange of ideas, and advance best practices across the industry.”
In his role as Co-Chair, Parrinello will help guide the committee’s efforts to deepen member engagement, strengthen connections across business lines, and ensure Nicsa continues to provide a collaborative forum for professionals throughout the industry.
“Mike’s broad industry perspective and commitment to building meaningful connections will be a tremendous asset to the Membership Committee,” said Allison Walsh, Executive Director, Head of Membership & Sales at Nicsa and liaison to the committee. “We look forward to his leadership as the committee continues to strengthen engagement across the Nicsa community, foster connections among professionals from across the industry, and identify new opportunities to deliver value to our members.”
For information about how to get involved in Nicsa’s Committees, reach out to [email protected].
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | Vice President, Content & Communications | [email protected]
Boston, MA – August 26, 2026 – Nicsa announced the appointment of Christopher T. Goff, Head of Strategic Relations at Columbia Threadneedle Investments, as a co-chair of the Nicsa Product & Distribution Committee.
The committee serves as a collaborative forum for asset and wealth management industry professionals focused on the evolving product and distribution landscape. Through ongoing dialogue and industry engagement, members exchange perspectives on product trends and development, intermediary engagement, data and reporting, and other issues influencing how firms develop and deliver investment solutions.
As co-chair, Goff will help guide the committee’s efforts to identify emerging trends, advance industry research, and share best practices that help Nicsa members navigate changing investor and intermediary needs.
“Nicsa plays a critical role in bringing together diverse perspectives from across the industry, and I’m excited to help lead that collaboration within the Product & Distribution Committee,” said Goff. “As product and distribution models continue to evolve, there is an opportunity to strengthen engagement across asset managers, intermediaries, and service providers. I look forward to working with the committee to turn shared insights into best practices that help our industry respond to changing marketplace needs.”
The Nicsa Product & Distribution Committee brings together professionals from across the asset and wealth management ecosystem to explore trends shaping product strategy and distribution. Through peer exchange, research, and the development of industry best practices, the committee provides members with opportunities to share insights, address common challenges, and advance solutions that support firms, intermediaries, and investors.
“Christopher’s experience building strategic relationships across the industry will bring an important perspective to the Product & Distribution Committee,” said Sarah Given, Vice President, Head of Asset and Wealth Management Relationships at Nicsa. “We look forward to his leadership as the committee continues to identify emerging trends, foster meaningful dialogue, and develop insights that help members navigate an evolving product and distribution landscape.”
For information about how to get involved in Nicsa’s Committees, reach out to [email protected].
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | Vice President, Content & Communications | [email protected]
Boston, MA - Aug 26, 2026 – Nicsa announced the appointment of Brooke Marrujo, Head of Strategic Relationships for Independent Broker Dealers at Capital Group, as a co-chair of the Nicsa Product & Distribution Committee.
The committee serves as a collaborative forum for asset and wealth management industry professionals focused on the evolving product and distribution landscape. Through ongoing dialogue and industry engagement, members exchange perspectives on product trends and development, intermediary engagement, data and reporting, and other issues influencing how firms develop and deliver investment solutions.
As co-chair, Marrujo will help guide the committee’s efforts to identify emerging trends, advance industry research, and share best practices that help Nicsa members navigate changing investor and intermediary needs.
“I’m honored to serve as Co-Chair of Nicsa’s Product & Distribution Committee and excited to help lead conversations that connect evolving client needs with innovative investment solutions,” said Marrujo. “By bringing together diverse industry perspectives, we can help drive the collaboration and innovation needed to ensure our industry continues to adapt, evolve, and deliver better outcomes for clients.”
The Nicsa Product & Distribution Committee brings together professionals from across the asset and wealth management ecosystem to explore trends shaping product strategy and distribution. Through peer exchange, research, and the development of industry best practices, the committee provides members with opportunities to share insights, address common challenges, and advance solutions that support firms, intermediaries, and investors.
“Brooke brings a valuable perspective at the intersection of distribution strategy, intermediary relationships, and evolving client needs,” said Sarah Given, Vice President, Head of Asset and Wealth Management Relationships at Nicsa “We are pleased to welcome her to this leadership role and look forward to the expertise and collaborative approach she will bring to the committee and the broader Nicsa community.”
For information about how to get involved in Nicsa’s Committees, reach out to [email protected].
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | Vice President, Content & Communications | [email protected]
Industry leaders to convene for timely conversations on alternatives, artificial intelligence, market dynamics, product innovation, and the forces reshaping asset and wealth management
Boston, MA – August 10, 2026 – Nicsa has announced its theme for the 2026 Asset & Wealth Management Summit: "Alts & AI: Transforming the Front, Middle, and Back Offices." The Summit will bring together leaders from across the asset and wealth management ecosystem for two days of strategic conversations focused on the trends, technologies, and business decisions redefining the industry.
As artificial intelligence transforms how firms operate and alternative investments reshape portfolios, retirement, and distribution, the 2026 Summit will provide a forum for executives to examine these forces from across the enterprise. The program is designed for professionals spanning investment and wealth management, operations, technology, product strategy, distribution, and other critical business functions.
A Timely Forum for an Industry in Transformation
The 2026 agenda will go beyond the headlines to examine how today’s most consequential trends are translating into strategic and operational decisions. Featured discussions include:
The 2026 Asset & Wealth Management Summit will convene professionals from across the industry to exchange perspectives, strengthen connections, and explore the strategic decisions shaping the future of asset and wealth management.
Industry leader to strengthen member engagement and support growth across the Nicsa community
BOSTON, MA –June 25 – Nicsa is pleased to announce the appointment of Jocelyn McBride, Co-Chief Executive Officer of Sodali & Co Fund Solutions, as Co-Chair of the Nicsa Membership Committee.
The Membership Committee plays a critical role in advancing member engagement, fostering community connections, and ensuring that Nicsa’s meaningful value is delivered to a broad range of professionals and organizations throughout the asset and wealth management industry.
"We are delighted to welcome Jocelyn as Co-Chair of the Membership Committee," said Jim Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Nicsa. "Her leadership, industry expertise, and commitment to building strong professional relationships will help further strengthen member engagement and support Nicsa's continued growth."
McBride brings extensive experience working with investment management firms and industry stakeholders, helping organizations navigate evolving business needs while fostering meaningful connections across the industry.
“I am honored to serve as Co-Chair of the Nicsa Membership Committee and support an organization that fosters collaboration across the asset and wealth management industry. As our industry evolves, Nicsa’s commitment to diverse perspectives and meaningful engagement is more important than ever. I look forward to working with fellow committee members to strengthen the member experience, grow the Nicsa community, and encourage broader participation,” said McBride.
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Nicsa fosters collaboration across the industry through education, events, committees, and thought leadership. For more information, visit www.nicsa.org.
Industry-leading program advances the next generation of leadership across the asset and wealth management industry
BOSTON, MA – June 8, 2026 – Nicsa is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Rising Stars Awards, recognizing exceptional emerging professionals who are making significant contributions to their organizations and helping shape the future of the asset and wealth management industry.
Established as a flagship Nicsa initiative, the Rising Star Program celebrate high-performing professionals who demonstrate leadership, innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to advancing the industry. Awardees are provided with mentorship, networking, and career development opportunities, building a foundation of skills critical for retention and advancement within the industry.
The program serves as a cornerstone of the Fearless Leadership Symposium (FLS), an annual event hosted by Nicsa’s Inclusion in Finance North America (IIFNA). IIFNA promotes inclusion and cognitive diversity within the asset and wealth management industry to power robust decision making and drive long term business success.
Now in its sixth year, the Rising Stars program continues to provide organizations with a meaningful way to recognize and invest in emerging talent while fostering a more connected, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.
"Developing the next generation of leaders is critical to the long-term success of our industry," said Jim Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Nicsa. "Through the Rising Star Program, Nicsa is proud to recognize professionals who are already making an impact within their firms and across the broader asset and wealth management community. These individuals represent the talent, innovation, and leadership that will shape our industry's future."
Member firms of IIFNA participate in the program annually, providing nominees with opportunities to build industry connections, gain visibility among peers and senior leaders, and engage with Inclusion in Finance programming designed to support professional growth and career advancement.
The 2026 Rising Stars are:
The honorees will be recognized on Tuesday, June 16 at Nicsa's FLS and celebrated alongside peers, mentors, and organizational leaders who continue to champion the development of emerging talent.
Organizations interested in supporting the advancement of future industry leaders are encouraged to learn more about Inclusion in Finance North America and theRising Star Program.
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
About Inclusion in Finance:
Inclusion in Finance is a cross-company initiative working to accelerate progress towards a more inclusive, high-performing finance industry. Operating across North America, the UK, and Europe, it brings together firms from major financial centers.
Its mission is to reshape the finance industry to achieve better outcomes - underpinning it with the twin foundations of inclusion and cognitive diversity to power robust decision-making and long-term business success.
Inclusion in Finance spans the breadth of the finance industry, including asset owners, investment managers, fund selectors, pension consultants, actuaries, trustees, wealth managers, investment banks, and professional standards and trade bodies. By convening industry leaders, delivering evidence-based programs, educational events, best practice guides, advocacy, collaboration and commissioning independent research, it supports firms in strengthening leadership, talent pipelines and inclusive cultures that benefit clients, member firms, employees and shareholders alike.
Website URLs:
Boston, MA — May 22, 2026 — Nicsa announced the appointment of Melissa Cross, Head of SMA Product at Allspring Global Investments, and Brian Reilly, Global Head of SMAs, Models, and Closed End Funds at Manulife John Hancock Investments, as co-chairs of the Nicsa SMA and Model Portfolio Committee.
The committee serves as a collaborative forum for asset and wealth management industry professionals engaged in managed accounts, separately managed accounts (SMAs), and model portfolios. Through ongoing dialogue and industry engagement, the committee shares best practices, explores operational and strategic trends, and provides perspectives on the evolving managed accounts landscape across asset managers, platforms, and service providers.
Under Cross and Reilly’s leadership, the committee will continue to focus on key industry priorities including innovation in SMA and model portfolio offerings, operational efficiency, distribution trends, technology integration, advisor adoption, and the evolving needs of clients and intermediaries.
“As an active member of the SMA and Model Portfolio Committee since its inception in 2019, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with an exceptional group of peers dedicated to advancing the evolution of our industry,” said Melissa Cross. “I’m truly honored to step into a leadership role at such a pivotal time, where we have a unique opportunity to further unite ideas, elevate best practices, and help shape the continued growth and innovation of the SMA and model portfolio landscape.”
“Nicsa plays a critical role in bringing together diverse perspectives across the industry, and I’m excited to help lead this effort within the SMA and model portfolio space,” said Brian Reilly. “As the landscape continues to evolve, there is an opportunity to drive even greater alignment across asset managers, platforms, and service providers. I look forward to working with the committee to help ensure that this alignment creates meaningful benefits for advisors and their clients.”
The Nicsa SMA and Model Portfolio Committee brings together leaders from across the managed accounts ecosystem to address emerging industry developments, foster collaboration, and support innovation that benefits firms, financial advisors, and investors alike. Sarah Walter, Nicsa’s Head of Asset and Wealth Management Relationships and liaison to the committee, said, “We are honored to collaborate with such accomplished leaders whose expertise and vision continue to shape the future of the industry. We are excited to welcome Melissa and Brian to the role and look forward to the meaningful contributions and fresh perspectives they will bring to the committee and the broader community.”
For information about how to get involved in Nicsa’s Committees, reach out to i[email protected].
About Nicsa
Nicsa is a leading not-for-profit trade association connecting all facets of the global asset and wealth management industry in order to develop, share, implement, and advance leading practices. Learn more at www.nicsa.org.
Press Contact:
Allison Lovett | Vice President, Content & Communications
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